As matplotlib, mayavi are purely python based tools, if any of you feel inclined towards these tools and are planning to pick up some python programming skills, then here is a compilation of some comprehensive material.
Python is a remarkably powerful dynamic programming language that is used in a wide variety of application domains. Python is often compared to Tcl, Perl, Ruby, Scheme or Java. Some of its key distinguishing features include:
very clear, readable syntax
strong introspection capabilities
intuitive object orientation
natural expression of procedural code
full modularity, supporting hierarchical packages
exception-based error handling
very high level dynamic data types
extensive standard libraries and third party modules for virtually every task
extensions and modules easily written in C, C++ (or Java for Jython, or .NET languages for IronPython)
embeddable within applications as a scripting interface
Python is a remarkably powerful dynamic programming language that is used in a wide variety of application domains. Python is often compared to Tcl, Perl, Ruby, Scheme or Java. Some of its key distinguishing features include:
Official Documentation for Python
http://www.python.org/doc/
Tutorial for Python
http://www.shakthimaan.com/downloads/glv/presentations/gnubie.html#_kid
More resources.
Image processing and Python:
http://www.pythonware.com/products/pil/
Python imaging handbook
http://www.pythonware.com/media/data/pil-handbook.pdf